Brain Tumor Symptoms and Warning Signs
Brain tumors can be serious, and spotting the brain tumor signs early can lead to better treatment. Knowing the common brain tumor symptoms can help you get medical help sooner, which may improve your chances of recovery. Here are the key signs to look out for.
1. Headaches
One of the most common signs of a brain tumor is frequent or severe headaches. These headaches are often worse in the morning, when lying down, or when bending over. If they don’t go away with regular painkillers and keep getting worse, it’s important to see a doctor.
2. Seizures
Seizures happen when there’s unusual electrical activity in the brain, causing convulsions or brief lapses in awareness. About 30% of people who have seizures for the first time as adults may have a brain tumor. If you or someone you know experiences a seizure, you should consult a brain surgeon immediately.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling sick or vomiting for no clear reason, especially in the mornings or along with a headache, could be a sign of increased pressure in the brain caused by a tumor. If this happens frequently, it’s worth checking with a neurosurgeon.
4. Vision Problems
Brain tumors can press on parts of the brain connected to your eyesight, causing blurred vision, double vision, or loss of side vision. If these vision issues don’t improve or happen suddenly, seek medical advice from a brain doctor.
5. Personality or Mood Changes
Brain tumors can affect your personality or mood, making you feel confused, forgetful, or easily irritated. Friends or family members may notice these changes before you do. These changes are worth discussing with a neurosurgeon if they seem unusual or out of character.
6. Hearing Issues
Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus), especially on one side, can be a brain tumour symptom. If this is something you experience without any other clear cause, get it checked by a neurosurgeon.
7. Weakness or Clumsiness
A brain tumor may affect your strength and coordination. This could make you feel weak or clumsy, usually on one side of the body. If this happens out of the blue, or if you struggle with everyday tasks, consult a doctor.
8. Balance Problems
If you start having trouble with your balance or coordination, especially while walking, it could be because a tumor is affecting the part of the brain that controls these functions. Don’t ignore frequent stumbles or falls.
9. Trouble Speaking or Thinking
Having difficulty finding words, thinking clearly, or remembering things might be a sign of a brain tumor affecting certain parts of the brain. If these problems persist or get worse, it’s important to have them looked at by a brain doctor.
When to See a Neurosurgeon
It’s important to consult a neurosurgeon if you notice any of the above symptoms, especially if they don’t go away or get worse over time.
- Ongoing Symptoms: If headaches, vision problems, or seizures continue or worsen, see a doctor.
- Getting Worse: Symptoms that gradually worsen should not be ignored. They need to be checked by a brain surgeon.
- New Seizures: If you experience a seizure for the first time as an adult, seek medical help right away.
Why Early Action Matters
Catching a brain tumor early, whether it’s cancerous or not, can lead to better treatment outcomes. If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, don’t wait—get medical advice as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can make a big difference. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and are in Pune, schedule a consultation with Dr. Vishal Bhasme, an experienced neurosurgeon, for expert care and guidance.
